The Book of Judges & Ruth
1. The Period of the Judges
The Book of Judges
A tragic, historical account of Israel’s moral and spiritual decline after the death of Joshua, highlighting a repetitive cycle of sin.
The Book of Ruth
A striking contrast which serves as a beautiful, practical demonstration of how the Law of Moses was lived out in daily life.
2. The Law Lived Out in the Book of Ruth
The Right of Gleaning
Leaving “gleanings” for the poor.
Leviticus 19:9–10; Deuteronomy 24:19; Ruth 2
The Kinsman-Redeemer
Protection of ancestral lands from permanently losing a family’s possession due to poverty.
Leviticus 25:25; Ruth 3–4
Levirate Marriage Customs
Brother marrying his brother’s widow so his lineage is not wiped out.
Deuteronomy 25:5–6; Ruth 4
3. New Testament Applications
No Excuses for Compromise
If Ruth could keep covenant in the days of the judges, we can today.
The Ultimate Redeemer
Boaz is a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate Redeemer.
The Gospel Is for All
Jesus is the universal Redeemer, and salvation through Him is open to all.
Consider These Passages
- Matthew 5:14–16
- Acts 2:38–41
- Romans 12:1–2
- 1 Peter 2:11–12